gebyrddæg
The Old English word for "birthday" is gebyrddæg.
gebyrddæg is a noun used to refer to the anniversary of one's birth.
Meaning: anniversary (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
This word is a compound of gebyrd, meaning "birth" and dæg, meaning "day".
Did you know?
- While gebyrddæg exists in the lexicon, there is little evidence that Anglo-Saxons celebrated individual birthdays with parties as we do today.
- Many Old English speakers would have tracked their gebyrddæg by the liturgical calendar or the seasons rather than a numbered date.
- The spelling of gebyrddæg uses a 'g' that, in certain Old English positions, would sound much more like a 'y' sound to an English speaker.
Examples in context
- Min gebyrddæg is on morgenne.My birthday is tomorrow.
Example conversation
Godric and Eadgyth are talking about an upcoming event.
- GodricHwæs gebyrddæg is tō morgen?Whose birthday is tomorrow?
- EadgythHit is þīn gebyrddæg, Godric.It is your birthday, Godric.
- GodricIċ ofgeat þone dæg!I forgot the day!
- EadgythNū wē sculon symbel healdan!Now we must hold a feast!
